Kentucky Dog Bite Laws
By Adenna Lee | Legally reviewed by Bridget Molitor, J.D. | Last reviewed February 21, 2025
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Dogs are a regular fixture of Kentucky life. Their roles can range from hunting to herding, and many are family pets that might romp in the parks of Louisville. But, dogs can do real damage. Disfigurement is one of many possible dog bite injuries, as well as broken bones. What should you do if you're bitten? And do you have options if you're the owner of a dog accused of biting someone?
Understanding the ins and outs of Kentucky dog bite laws is important. Below, we will examine where fault lies in a dog attack, who should pay for any medical bills, and how the law handles dog bite cases.
How Does Kentucky Protect the Public From Dangerous Dogs?
Kentucky has specific laws that protect the public from dangerous dogs. Here is a sampling:
- Dogs can't be at large in Kentucky between dusk and dawn.
- All dogs must have the required vaccinations and wear identification on their collars at all times.
Animal control officers and animal shelters have a good deal of jurisdiction on impounds, violations, and other issues dealing with animals.
Any dog declared dangerous by a Kentucky court must be in a secure location. If a vicious dog returns to its owner, animal control officers will ensure it is properly penned and away from others.
When Dogs Attack
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), over 4.5 million people get dog bites yearly. Over 800,000, or about one in five, get medical attention for those bites. A dog bite may happen for many reasons, and most don't involve vicious dogs. A scared, surprised, or threatened dog may lash out, even at a loved one.
If you are a dog bite victim, the first thing you must do is seek medical attention. Then, file a dog bite report with the local authorities.
After that, it's natural to wonder who is responsible and if you should involve insurance companies. Kentucky is a strict liability state, which means dog owners are liable for any injuries their dogs cause by biting others. The state does not apply the "one-bite rule," which allows dog owners to consider their dogs safe unless they've already bitten someone.
This means that even the most responsible dog owners, with no reason to believe their dog is vicious, are still liable if the dog unexpectedly snaps and causes an injury.
Comparative Negligence in Kentucky Dog Bite Claims
Kentucky statutes (laws) state that the owner of an animal that bites someone will be liable to pay all personal injury damages. It also recognizes comparative negligence when determining ratios of fault among the involved parties.
For example, someone who was trespassing on the owner's property and got bitten after approaching a dog that was snarling or otherwise signaling aggression may be at least partially at fault.
If the court agrees, then their claim will get reduced in proportion to their comparative fault. If this seems possible, you might want to contact a dog bite attorney for legal advice.
Overview of Kentucky Dog Bite Laws
There is a wealth of information available about dealing with the aftermath of a dog attack. Important details about Kentucky's dog bite laws are in the table below.
| Kentucky animal bite laws (Statutes) | Kentucky Revised Statutes Title XXI. Agriculture and Animals: Section 258.235 |
|---|---|
| Civil liability for dog bites | Any owner whose dog causes damage to a person, livestock, or other property will be responsible for that damage. Section 258.235 (4) |
| Fines, additional penalties for dog bites | Anyone attacked by a dog (or acting on behalf of someone who was) may file a civil complaint that the owner is harboring a vicious dog. The dog owner will get a summons to appear at a hearing.
|
| Comparative negligence | In determining the percentages of fault, the court considers the nature of the conduct of each party at fault and the extent of the causal relation between the conduct and the damages claimed. Damages are awarded to each claimant by the respective percentages of fault (section 411.182). |
| Regulations for dogs declared to be vicious | Any dog determined to be vicious by a court and allowed to return to an owner must be in a locked enclosure at least seven feet high or a locked kennel run with a secured top. The dog may leave the enclosure only to visit the veterinarian or to get turned in at an animal shelter. The dog must be muzzled if leaving the enclosure for either of these purposes. |
| Time limit for filing a claim | One year (section 413.140 (1)(a)) |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts that include federal decisions, ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state laws you are researching.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Dog Bites
Every situation involving a dog attack has different details, but certain common themes exist. Some commonly raised questions are listed below.
I Got Bitten by My Neighbor's Dog Last Summer. Is It Too Late to File an Injury Claim?
Under Kentucky's Statute of Limitations, you have up to one year to file a claim for being a dog bite victim. Remember that when you've been bitten, it's important to file a dog bite claim, whether you need medical attention or not.
What Happens if the Court Says My Dog Is Vicious?
If a Kentucky court deems your dog to be vicious, there are several conditions you'll have to meet to bring the dog home.
The animal must be in a locked enclosure or kennel. It can only leave to visit the veterinarian or get turned in at an animal shelter, and it must wear a muzzle for either.
It is also possible the court may rule the dog is too dangerous for release.
A Dog Bit Me, and My Friend Says I Can Sue for Punitive Damages. Are They Right?
Punitive damages are to punish someone for egregious behavior. In general, it's very difficult to get punitive damages in a dog bite case. You would have to prove that the owner trained the dog to be vicious and had it attack you with intent to harm you. If you feel that's what happened, you should explore that line of thought with a personal injury lawyer.
Are There Breeds of Dogs That Don't Bite?
No. Every dog is capable of biting. There is a lot of misinformation about breeds that are allegedly more dangerous. The simple truth is that nearly every dog has something that will trigger them to react with aggression.
Research the Law
Related Resources
- Animal Attack and Dog Bite Claim Resources
- Does the Type of Animal Affect a Bite Injury Case?
- Dog/Animal Bites: FAQ
Get Legal Help With Your Dog Bite Situation in Kentucky
Nobody plans to get a dog bite, nor do they want their own dog to bite someone else. In either instance, it's important to know what to do next. There are medical expenses involved, as well as levels of fault.
If a dog bites you, get immediate medical attention, then consider your legal options, including a possible claim against the dog's owner. Speaking with a local personal injury attorney can help explain how Kentucky dog bite laws apply to your case.
If you are the dog owner, you'll want to know what options are available. A dog bite lawyer specializing in defense can offer sound legal advice and guide you toward the best outcome possible.
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